The Anti-Corruption Crusade of the Organisation of People’s Voice, a member of the ICPC National Anti-Corruption Coalition in Ogun State, has raised the alarm over what it described as the growing culture of political exploitation, manipulation, and abuse of public trust in Nigeria.
The group warned that the continued commercialisation of politics and erosion of democratic accountability pose serious threats to national stability, economic growth, and sustainable development.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Anti-Corruption Ambassador of Nigeria, Ustadh Tajudeen Jimoh Alao, who spoke on behalf of the State Coordinator, Mr. Idris Kelvin Abu, said the current political climate across Nigeria and parts of Africa reflects a dangerous shift from service-driven leadership to self-serving governance.
He lamented that political offices were increasingly being used as platforms for personal enrichment, domination, and exploitation of vulnerable citizens, a trend he said had weakened institutions, worsened poverty, and fueled insecurity.
The coalition noted that many Nigerians, particularly youths and economically disadvantaged groups, are often manipulated through inducements such as cash, food items, and other gifts in exchange for political loyalty and electoral support.
It added that in some cases, young people were recruited to spread misinformation, intimidate opponents, and disrupt electoral processes, only to be abandoned after elections.
“This destructive cycle has continued to deepen unemployment, frustration, and hopelessness among young people,” the statement said.
The group further criticised the persistence of patronage politics, godfatherism, and ethnic-based considerations in governance, warning that such practices undermine merit, transparency, and national development.
It also expressed concern over the use of religion and ethnicity as tools for political division, noting that such tactics weaken social cohesion and hinder democratic progress.
The coalition said the widening gap between political office holders and citizens had continued to generate public frustration, particularly amid rising cost of governance, excessive privileges for politicians, and poor delivery of basic services.
It stressed that public office should not be an avenue for luxury or abuse of power but a constitutional trust aimed at prioritising citizens’ welfare.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, the group reiterated that the security and welfare of the people remain the primary responsibility of government.
The statement also referenced provisions of the ICPC Act 2000, which criminalise corruption, bribery, and abuse of office, urging leaders to embrace accountability, transparency, and discipline in governance.
While acknowledging growing calls for reforms, the coalition urged stakeholders to focus on reducing the cost of governance, strengthening institutions, and improving service delivery.
It identified key areas requiring urgent attention to include local government administration, education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
The group maintained that Africa’s major challenge was not a lack of human or natural resources but a deficit in ethical leadership and institutional accountability.
It called on citizens to reject vote-buying, political violence, ethnic division, and misinformation, stressing that democracy can only thrive with active civic participation and accountability.
The coalition urged political leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to recommit to integrity, justice, and responsible governance.
It added that sustainable development would remain elusive unless corruption is tackled, institutions are strengthened, and leaders prioritise public interest over personal gain.
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